McIlroy ready for more major glory: “I don’t want that to be my last great moment in the game
Rory McIlroy returns to action in the Genesis Scottish Open with a clearer idea of his post-Grand Slam ambitions and a burning desire to win more majors at iconic courses.
The Masters champion spoke of being “flat” after achieving his career ambition at Augusta National in April.
But he explained at the Renaissance Club that he’s now had time to process becoming just the sixth player in the modern era to win all four majors.
After a period of reflection, he feels ready now to target more success at iconic venues such as Pebble Beach and St Andrews or even Royal Portrush at next week’s Open Championship.
“I think I do feel a little clearer,” he said of his goals.
“It's amazing what ten days or two weeks of just a little bit of detachment can do for you, and sitting there being with your own thoughts for a while.
“Yeah, look, there's other -- I don't want that (the Masters) to be my last great moment in the game.
“There's plenty more that I can do. I feel like I've kept banging on this drum all of this year, I feel like I'm a better player now than I ever have been.
“And there's so many opportunities that lie ahead and whether that's Portrush next week or The Open going back to St Andrews or a US Open at Pebble Beach (both in 2027).
“There's all these great venues that all the greats have won on, and I'd love to add my name to those lists, as well.”
McIlroy, who is joined in Scotland by Pádraig Harrington, finished tied 47th in the PGA Championship and joint 19th in the US Open.
After finishing tied for seventh in the Travelers Championship last month, he’s had time now to relaxed and t across travel across the Atlantic to see his new Wentworth home.
It’s helped him reflect better on his Grand Slam achievement and reset his goals.
“I think over these last couple of weeks, coming back over here, seeing people that I know that I haven't seen since Augusta, having conversations about how people felt watching it and obviously rekindles how I felt playing,” he said.
“The last couple of weeks have been really nice. It's been nice to get back over here. See some familiar faces.
“I feel like I didn't give myself that time after Augusta. Bit of a whirlwind. I wanted to go home and see my mum and dad, then New Orleans, the media tour, all a bit of a whirlwind, and straight into the next major.
“It's been nice to have these couple of weeks to reflect and as well as rekindle my excitement and enthusiasm for the rest of the year.
“Obviously we have this week in Scotland and massive week next week in Portrush. I'm excited for the rest of year.”
